Seoul First-Timer Travel Guide: 8 Hotspots Transportation/Itinerary/Food All Strategies! Must-See Attractions for First Visit to Seoul

For the first time traveling to Seoul, South Korea independently, pre-trip preparation is essential. Kinnso has compiled a list of 8 popular attractions for Seoul newbies, covering transportation, suggested itineraries, and surrounding food options. All the information is packed into one guide! Follow this Seoul travel guide, and you're guaranteed to have a fun and stress-free trip!

Myeongdong is a shopping paradise that you must visit when in Seoul. Here, you can find large department stores, flagship stores of famous brands, and cosmetics stores specializing in Korean makeup. Not only can you buy the latest fashion trends here, but you can also stock up on Korean beauty products. Besides shopping, Myeongdong's street food and restaurants are also quite famous. You might as well try authentic Korean dishes like fried chicken and spicy rice cakes. Transportation: Take subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station and exit at exits 6-12.

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, resembles a futuristic spaceship. It's not only a hub for designers but also a barometer of global fashion trends. You can enjoy various design exhibitions here and feel the boundless creativity. The plaza is surrounded by traditional markets and large shopping malls, making it a great place for shoppers. Transportation: Take subway Line 2 or Line 4 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station.

If you want to experience the traditional Korean atmosphere, why not take a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village? Here, many Korean traditional houses are preserved, with blue-tiled roofs and white walls that are quite characteristic of Korea. You can rent a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) to wander among them, as if traveling through time, and feel the romantic atmosphere of ancient Korea. There are also many literary cafes and boutiques in the village, worth exploring slowly. Transportation: * Take subway Line 3 to Anguk Station and walk west for about 10 minutes from Exit 2. * Or take subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station and walk right for about 15 minutes after exiting from Exit 3.

Located in Namsan Park, the N Seoul Tower is a landmark of South Korea. Climbing to the 236.7-meter observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Seoul's city scenery. The plaza at the base of the tower has a love lock wall, making it a must-visit romantic spot for couples. If you want to ascend effortlessly, take the cable car to the top, enjoying scenic views along the way.

Transportation:

• Take subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station and transfer to the Namsan circulation bus.
• Or take subway Line 3 to Dongguk University Entrance Station, exit from Exit 6, and walk for 15 minutes to the N Seoul Tower cable car station.

As the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace's majestic architecture lets you feel the grandeur of the royal court. Besides admiring the beautiful palaces, you can rent a Hanbok and take pictures inside to create unforgettable memories. You can also watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the palace gate and experience the solemnity of Korean traditional culture. Transportation: Take subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Palace Station and exit from Exit 4 or 5 to reach your destination.

Hongdae shopping district, a favorite among young people, is known not only for its various brand clothing stores but also for its unique boutiques and independent designer brand stores. Here, the atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great place to chase fashion trends. In addition, there are many famous cafes and bars, perfect for a light drink with three or five friends. Transportation: Take Line 2 of the subway to Hongik University Entrance Station or Chil-ri Station, both within walking distance.

Located in Seoul's Yongsan District, Itaewon is the largest foreign resident district in South Korea, with a strong exotic atmosphere. It features cuisine from all over the world, as well as bars, clubs and other nightlife venues, making it a paradise for night owls. Every Halloween eve, it hosts the largest costume party in South Korea, which is incredibly lively. Transportation: Take subway Line 6 to Itaewon Station and exit at exits 1-3.

If you enjoy art and cultural activities, you must visit Insadong. Here, you'll find many museums, galleries, antique shops, and stores selling traditional Korean crafts. You can treasure hunt in trendy boutiques or relax at unique cafes, soaking up the rich artistic atmosphere. Transportation: Take subway Line 3 to Anguk Station and exit from Gate 6. It's about a 10-minute walk from there.

Above is a detailed introduction to the 8 must-visit attractions for first-time visitors to Seoul, covering shopping, food, history and culture, and art. I hope that through this article, you can have a deeper understanding of this city on your first independent trip to Seoul, and be able to plan your itinerary more easily. Remember to bookmark this article before you depart so that you can have a fun and fulfilling trip without missing any exciting attractions!